Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method, comprising: communicating, by a processor of a user equipment (UE), with a base station of a network via a communication link; receiving, by the processor, from the base station one or more reference signals, which are non-zero power (NZP) or zero power (ZP), on one or more time-frequency resources indicated by the network via the communication link between the UE and the base station; estimating, by the processor based on the receiving, a subspace spanned by a channel response of an interfering signal; determining, by the processor, a precoding matrix indicator (PMI) based on the estimated subspace; and transmitting, by the processor, to the base station a channel state information (CSI) feedback comprising at least the PMI, wherein the CSI feedback further comprises information related to a signal quality of each spatial layer of a plurality of spatial layers with respect to the communication link by indicating one or more than one layer indexes sorted in a sorted order based on signal quality of the plurality of spatial layers such that: when the sorted order is a descending order, a first index value for a first spatial layer having a higher signal quality is reported before a second index value for a second spatial layer having a lower signal quality, and when the sorted order is an ascending order, the second index value for a third spatial layer having the lower signal quality is reported before the first index value for a fourth spatial layer having the higher signal quality.
The invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving channel state information (CSI) feedback mechanisms in user equipment (UE) to enhance communication efficiency. The problem addressed is the need for accurate and efficient reporting of channel conditions, including interference and signal quality across multiple spatial layers, to optimize data transmission between a UE and a base station. The method involves a UE communicating with a base station via a communication link. The UE receives reference signals, which can be non-zero power (NZP) or zero power (ZP), on designated time-frequency resources indicated by the network. The UE processes these signals to estimate a subspace spanned by the channel response of interfering signals. Based on this estimation, the UE determines a precoding matrix indicator (PMI), which is used to optimize signal transmission. The UE then transmits CSI feedback to the base station, including the PMI and additional information about the signal quality of each spatial layer in the communication link. The CSI feedback includes layer indexes sorted by signal quality, either in descending or ascending order. For descending order, layers with higher signal quality are reported before those with lower quality. For ascending order, the opposite applies. This sorting allows the base station to prioritize data transmission on the best-performing spatial layers, improving overall communication efficiency and reliability. The method ensures that the UE provides detailed and structured feedback, enabling the network to adapt transmission strategies dynamically.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the PMI comprises at least a first precoder and a second precoder, and wherein the first precoder is approximately parallel to the channel response of the interfering signal, and wherein the second precoder is approximately orthogonal to the channel response of the interfering signal.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to techniques for mitigating interference in multi-user multiple-input multiple-output (MU-MIMO) environments. The problem addressed is the degradation of signal quality due to interference from other users or signals in the same frequency band, which reduces data throughput and reliability. The method involves using precoding matrix indicators (PMI) to select and apply precoders that optimize signal transmission while minimizing interference. The PMI includes at least two precoders: a first precoder aligned approximately parallel to the channel response of the interfering signal, and a second precoder aligned approximately orthogonal to the channel response of the interfering signal. The parallel precoder enhances the desired signal by aligning with the interference direction, while the orthogonal precoder suppresses interference by aligning perpendicular to it. This dual-precoder approach improves signal separation and reduces interference, leading to better performance in MU-MIMO systems. The technique is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple users share the same frequency resources, such as in 5G and beyond networks.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the information related to the signal quality of each spatial layer of the plurality of spatial layers with respect to the communication link comprises quantized values for a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), a channel quality indicator (CQI) or a supported spectral efficiency (SE) of each spatial layer or each spatial layer group of the plurality of spatial layers.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving signal quality assessment in multi-layer spatial multiplexing. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and accurate reporting of signal quality metrics for each spatial layer or group of spatial layers in a multi-input multi-output (MIMO) communication link. Traditional methods often lack granularity or introduce excessive overhead when reporting per-layer quality metrics. The invention provides a method for quantizing and reporting signal quality information for each spatial layer or layer group in a MIMO system. The reported metrics include quantized values for signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), channel quality indicator (CQI), or supported spectral efficiency (SE). These quantized values allow the receiver to assess the quality of each spatial layer or layer group independently, enabling more precise resource allocation and link adaptation. The quantization process reduces the amount of data needed for reporting while maintaining sufficient accuracy for effective communication optimization. This approach is particularly useful in high-throughput scenarios where multiple spatial layers are used to enhance data rates. The method ensures that the reported quality metrics are both compact and informative, facilitating better decision-making in dynamic wireless environments.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the information related to the signal quality of each spatial layer of the plurality of spatial layers with respect to the communication link comprises quantized values for a differential of a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), a channel quality indicator (CQI) or a supported spectral efficiency (SE) of each spatial layer or each spatial layer group of the plurality of spatial layers relative to a SNR, a CQI or a SE reported for each codeword.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving signal quality reporting for multi-layer spatial transmission. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and accurate feedback on signal quality across multiple spatial layers in a communication link, which is critical for optimizing data transmission in multi-antenna systems. The invention provides a method for reporting signal quality information for each spatial layer or group of spatial layers in a communication link. The reported information includes quantized values representing the differential signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), channel quality indicator (CQI), or supported spectral efficiency (SE) of each spatial layer or spatial layer group relative to the SNR, CQI, or SE reported for each codeword. This differential approach reduces the amount of feedback data needed while maintaining accuracy in signal quality assessment. The method ensures that the feedback is both precise and efficient, enabling better resource allocation and transmission optimization in multi-layer communication systems. The quantized differential values allow the receiver to reconstruct the signal quality of each spatial layer or group relative to the overall codeword performance, improving system efficiency and reliability.
5. The method of claim 2 , further comprising: receiving, by the processor, from the base station a first set of codeblocks mapped in an orderly fashion according to a first mapping order with spatial layer first over a first set of spatial layers associated with the first precoder, frequency second, and time third; and receiving, by the processor, from the base station a second set of codeblocks mapped in an orderly fashion according to a second mapping order with spatial layer first over a second set of spatial layers associated with the second precoder, frequency second, and time third.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods for receiving codeblocks from a base station using multiple precoders. The problem addressed is the efficient and ordered transmission of data codeblocks in multi-layer spatial multiplexing scenarios, ensuring proper alignment and processing of data across different spatial layers, frequencies, and time resources. The method involves a processor receiving two sets of codeblocks from a base station. The first set is mapped in a specific order: spatial layer first across a first set of spatial layers associated with a first precoder, followed by frequency, and then time. Similarly, the second set is mapped in the same order but across a second set of spatial layers associated with a second precoder. This ordered mapping ensures that data is transmitted and received in a structured manner, optimizing spatial multiplexing and reducing errors in data reconstruction. The use of distinct precoders for different spatial layers allows for improved beamforming and interference management, while the consistent mapping order ensures that the receiver can accurately reconstruct the transmitted data. This approach is particularly useful in advanced wireless systems where multiple spatial streams are used to enhance data throughput and reliability.
6. The method of claim 5 , further comprising: transmitting, by the processor, to the base station a hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) with multiple bits indicating that a first plurality of codeblocks of a codeword are received correctly or in error and a second plurality of codeblocks of the codeword are received correctly or in error.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving error handling in hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) processes for codewords divided into multiple codeblocks. The problem addressed is the inefficiency of traditional HARQ mechanisms that provide only a single acknowledgment (ACK/NACK) for an entire codeword, leading to unnecessary retransmissions of correctly received codeblocks or repeated errors in problematic blocks. The method involves a user device receiving a codeword divided into multiple codeblocks from a base station. The device processes each codeblock to determine whether it was received correctly or in error. Instead of sending a single ACK/NACK for the entire codeword, the device transmits a multi-bit HARQ feedback to the base station. This feedback includes separate status indicators for at least two distinct groups of codeblocks within the codeword. For example, the feedback may indicate that a first group of codeblocks was received correctly while a second group was received in error, or vice versa. This granular feedback allows the base station to selectively retransmit only the erroneous codeblocks, improving efficiency and reducing unnecessary data transmission. The approach enhances reliability and throughput by minimizing redundant retransmissions and focusing correction efforts on problematic codeblocks. This is particularly useful in high-speed or high-latency communication scenarios where efficient error recovery is critical.
7. The method of claim 5 , further comprising: transmitting, by the processor, to the base station a hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) with multiple bits indicating a code state that indicates whether one or more codeblocks of a codeword are impacted by cross-link interference (CLI) or not.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing cross-link interference (CLI) in scenarios where multiple base stations operate in close proximity. CLI occurs when signals from one base station interfere with transmissions from another, degrading performance. The invention provides a method to mitigate CLI by enabling a user device to report the impact of CLI on received data. The method involves a user device receiving a codeword, which is divided into one or more codeblocks. The device processes the codeword to determine whether any of the codeblocks are affected by CLI. Based on this assessment, the device generates a hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) feedback message containing multiple bits that encode a code state. This code state indicates which codeblocks, if any, are impacted by CLI. The device then transmits this HARQ feedback to the base station, allowing the base station to identify and address the affected codeblocks. This approach improves communication reliability by enabling targeted retransmission or correction of only the affected portions of the data, rather than the entire codeword. The method enhances efficiency and reduces unnecessary retransmissions in dense network environments where CLI is prevalent.
8. The method of claim 5 , further comprising: transmitting, by the processor, to the base station a hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) with multiple bits indicating a code state that indicates one or more block errors or one or more random errors.
In wireless communication systems, reliable data transmission is critical, but errors can occur due to interference, noise, or channel conditions. Existing error detection and correction mechanisms, such as hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ), often rely on simple acknowledgment (ACK) or negative acknowledgment (NACK) signals to indicate whether a transmitted data block was successfully received. However, these binary feedback mechanisms lack granularity, making it difficult for the transmitter to distinguish between different types of errors (e.g., block errors affecting entire data units versus random bit errors). This invention improves error reporting in wireless communication by enhancing HARQ feedback with a multi-bit code state indicator. The method involves a processor at a receiving device analyzing received data to detect errors, then transmitting a HARQ message to the base station. The HARQ message includes multiple bits that encode a code state, which provides detailed information about the nature of the errors. The code state can indicate whether the errors are block errors (affecting entire data blocks) or random errors (affecting individual bits). This granular feedback allows the base station to adapt its retransmission strategy more effectively, improving overall communication efficiency and reliability. The method may also involve additional error detection and correction steps, such as cyclic redundancy check (CRC) validation and soft-decision decoding, to further refine error identification. By providing more detailed error feedback, this approach enhances the robustness of wireless communication systems in challenging environments.
9. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: receiving, by the processor, from the base station data signals over a plurality of spatial layers that are divided into at least a first group and a second group of spatial layers, wherein the first group is associated with the first precoder, and wherein the second group is associated with the second precoder.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving data reception in multi-layer spatial multiplexing environments. The problem addressed is efficiently processing data signals transmitted over multiple spatial layers using different precoders, which can enhance throughput and reliability in high-capacity wireless networks. The method involves a processor receiving data signals from a base station over multiple spatial layers, which are divided into at least two distinct groups. Each group is associated with a separate precoder, allowing the base station to apply different precoding schemes to different subsets of spatial layers. The first group of spatial layers is processed using a first precoder, while the second group is processed using a second precoder. This division enables flexible precoding strategies, such as adapting to channel conditions or user-specific requirements. The processor decodes the received signals by applying the appropriate precoding matrices to each group, reconstructing the transmitted data. This approach improves signal integrity and data throughput by optimizing precoding for different spatial layers, particularly in scenarios with varying channel characteristics or interference patterns. The method is applicable in advanced wireless systems like 5G and beyond, where spatial multiplexing and multi-user MIMO techniques are critical for high-performance communication.
10. A method, comprising: communicating, by a processor of a user equipment (UE), with a base station of a network via a communication link using dynamic time-division duplexing (TDD); receiving, by the processor, from the base station one or more reference signals, which are non-zero power (NZP) or zero power (ZP), on one or more time-frequency resources indicated by the network via the communication link between the UE and the base station with dynamic TDD; determining, by the processor, first channel state information (CSI) comprising rank indication (RI), precoding matrix indicator (PMI) and channel quality indicator (CQI) for a plurality of time slots associated with a first slot type used for the dynamic TDD; determining, by the processor, second CSI comprising RI, PMI and CQI for a plurality of time slots associated with a second slot type used for the dynamic TDD different from the first slot type; and transmitting, by the processor, to the base station a CSI feedback indicating the first CSI and the second CSI, wherein the determining of the PMI comprises identifying the PMI for a subspace not spanned by a channel response of an interfering signal.
Dynamic time-division duplexing (TDD) in wireless networks enables flexible uplink and downlink communication by dynamically allocating time slots. However, interference and varying channel conditions pose challenges in accurately determining channel state information (CSI) for different slot types. This invention addresses these issues by improving CSI feedback mechanisms in dynamic TDD systems. A user equipment (UE) communicates with a base station via a dynamic TDD link, receiving reference signals (non-zero power or zero power) on specified time-frequency resources. The UE processes these signals to generate CSI for two distinct slot types used in dynamic TDD. For each slot type, the UE determines CSI parameters including rank indication (RI), precoding matrix indicator (PMI), and channel quality indicator (CQI). The PMI is derived by identifying a subspace not spanned by the channel response of interfering signals, enhancing interference mitigation. The UE then transmits a CSI feedback report to the base station, containing the CSI for both slot types. This approach ensures accurate CSI feedback tailored to different dynamic TDD slot configurations, improving communication reliability and efficiency in interference-prone environments. The method leverages advanced signal processing to optimize PMI selection, reducing interference impact and enhancing overall system performance.
11. The method of claim 10 , wherein the first slot type corresponds to time slots used for the dynamic TDD with light cross-link interference (CLI), and wherein the second slot type corresponds to time slots used for the dynamic TDD with heavy CLI.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically dynamic Time Division Duplexing (TDD) configurations in cellular networks. The problem addressed is managing cross-link interference (CLI) between uplink and downlink transmissions in dynamic TDD, where interference levels can vary significantly between different time slots. The solution involves classifying time slots into distinct types based on CLI severity to optimize network performance. The method dynamically assigns time slots to one of two types: a first slot type for scenarios with light CLI and a second slot type for scenarios with heavy CLI. The classification is based on real-time interference measurements or predefined network conditions. For light CLI slots, the system may use standard TDD configurations with minimal interference mitigation. For heavy CLI slots, additional interference suppression techniques are applied, such as beamforming adjustments, power control, or slot scheduling optimizations. The approach ensures efficient resource utilization while minimizing interference-related performance degradation. The system may also adapt the classification criteria based on historical data or changing network conditions to maintain optimal operation. This method is particularly useful in dense urban deployments or high-traffic scenarios where CLI is a significant limiting factor.
12. The method of claim 10 , further comprising: receiving, by the processor, from the base station downlink control information (DCI) in a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH); and deriving, by the processor based on the PDCCH, a respective slot type for each time slot of at least some of the plurality of time slots.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing time slot configurations in a wireless network. The problem addressed is the efficient allocation and utilization of time slots in wireless communication to optimize performance and resource management. The invention provides a method for dynamically determining the type of each time slot in a communication frame, allowing for flexible and adaptive scheduling of uplink and downlink transmissions. The method involves a processor receiving downlink control information (DCI) from a base station via a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH). The DCI contains instructions that the processor uses to derive the slot type for each time slot in a set of time slots within a communication frame. The slot types may include uplink, downlink, or flexible slots, enabling the base station to dynamically adjust the allocation of resources based on current network conditions and traffic demands. This dynamic allocation improves efficiency by reducing wasted resources and enhancing overall system performance. The method ensures that the processor can interpret the DCI and correctly assign the appropriate slot type to each time slot, allowing for seamless communication between the base station and user devices. The invention is particularly useful in modern wireless networks where flexible scheduling is essential for handling diverse traffic patterns and optimizing network performance.
13. The method of claim 10 , further comprising: receiving, by the processor, from the base station radio resource control (RRC) signaling; and deriving, by the processor based on the RRC signaling, a respective slot type for each time slot of at least some of the plurality of time slots.
In wireless communication systems, efficient resource allocation is critical for optimizing performance. A method addresses the challenge of dynamically managing time slots in a communication frame to improve data transmission efficiency. The method involves a processor analyzing radio resource control (RRC) signaling received from a base station to determine the type of each time slot in a communication frame. The processor derives a respective slot type for each time slot, categorizing them based on their intended use, such as downlink, uplink, or flexible slots. This dynamic slot classification allows the system to adapt to varying traffic conditions and optimize resource allocation. The method may also include configuring the time slots based on the derived slot types, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently for different communication needs. By leveraging RRC signaling, the system can dynamically adjust slot configurations without requiring frequent updates, reducing overhead and improving overall system performance. This approach enhances flexibility and efficiency in wireless communication networks.
14. A method, comprising: communicating, by a processor of a base station of a network, with a user equipment (UE) via a communication link using dynamic time-division duplexing (TDD); transmitting, by the processor, to the UE one or more reference signals, which are non-zero power (NZP) or zero power (ZP), on one or more time-frequency resources indicated by the network via the communication link between the UE and the base station with dynamic TDD; and receiving, by the processor, from the UE a channel state information (CSI) feedback comprising at least a precoding matrix indicator (PMI), wherein the PMI comprises at least a first precoder and a second precoder, wherein the first precoder is approximately parallel to a channel response of an interfering signal, wherein the second precoder is approximately orthogonal to the channel response of the interfering signal, and wherein the CSI feedback further comprises information related to a signal quality of each spatial layer of a plurality of spatial layers with respect to the communication link by indicating one or more than one layer indexes sorted in a sorted order based on signal quality of the plurality of spatial layers such that: when the sorted order is a descending order, a first index value for a first spatial layer having a higher signal quality is reported before a second index value for a second spatial layer having a lower signal quality, and when the sorted order is an ascending order, the second index value for a third spatial layer having the lower signal quality is reported before the first index value for a fourth spatial layer having the higher signal quality.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems using dynamic time-division duplexing (TDD) to manage interference and improve channel state information (CSI) feedback. In dynamic TDD networks, base stations and user equipment (UE) dynamically switch between uplink and downlink transmissions, which can introduce interference. The invention addresses this by enhancing CSI feedback to include precoding matrix indicators (PMI) that mitigate interference. The PMI comprises two precoders: one aligned with the interfering signal's channel response and another orthogonal to it. This allows the network to adaptively suppress interference while optimizing signal quality. Additionally, the CSI feedback includes signal quality information for each spatial layer, sorted in either ascending or descending order based on signal strength. This sorting helps the base station prioritize spatial layers for transmission, improving data throughput and reliability. The method involves transmitting reference signals (non-zero power or zero power) on designated time-frequency resources, enabling the UE to measure the channel and generate the enhanced CSI feedback. This approach enhances interference management and spectral efficiency in dynamic TDD systems.
15. The method of claim 14 , wherein the information related to the signal quality of each spatial layer of the plurality of spatial layers with respect to the communication link further comprises one or more of: quantized values for a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), a channel quality indicator (CQI) or a supported spectral efficiency (SE) of each spatial layer or each spatial layer group of the plurality of spatial layers; and quantized values for a differential of each of a SNR, a CQI or a SE of each spatial layer or each spatial layer group of the plurality of spatial layers relative to a CQI reported for each codeword.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving signal quality assessment in multi-layer spatial multiplexing. The problem addressed is the need for more precise and efficient reporting of signal quality metrics across multiple spatial layers in a communication link, which is critical for optimizing data transmission rates and reliability in multi-antenna systems. The method involves analyzing and reporting signal quality information for each spatial layer or groups of spatial layers in a communication link. The reported information includes quantized values for key performance metrics such as signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), channel quality indicator (CQI), or supported spectral efficiency (SE) for each spatial layer or layer group. Additionally, the method provides quantized differential values comparing each spatial layer's SNR, CQI, or SE against a baseline CQI reported for each codeword. This differential reporting allows for more granular adjustments in transmission parameters, improving overall system efficiency. By quantizing these metrics, the method reduces the complexity of feedback transmission while maintaining sufficient accuracy for adaptive modulation and coding schemes. The approach is particularly useful in advanced wireless standards where multiple spatial streams are used to enhance throughput and reliability. The invention enables more dynamic and precise adjustments in transmission strategies based on the varying quality of individual spatial layers.
16. The method of claim 14 , further comprising: transmitting, by the processor, to the UE a first set of codeblocks mapped in an orderly fashion according to a first mapping order with spatial layer first over a first set of spatial layers associated with the first precoder, frequency second, and time third; and transmitting, by the processor, to the UE a second set of codeblocks mapped in an orderly fashion according to a second mapping order with spatial layer first over a second set of spatial layers associated with the second precoder, frequency second, and time third.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods for transmitting data to a user equipment (UE) using multiple precoders and spatial layers. The problem addressed is efficient data transmission in multi-antenna systems where multiple precoders are used to enhance signal quality and throughput. The invention improves upon existing techniques by defining a structured mapping order for codeblocks across spatial layers, frequency, and time domains. The method involves transmitting data to a UE using two precoders, each associated with a distinct set of spatial layers. A first set of codeblocks is mapped in a specific order: spatial layer first, followed by frequency, and then time. This ensures that codeblocks are distributed across spatial layers in an orderly manner before being allocated to frequency and time resources. Similarly, a second set of codeblocks is mapped using a second precoder, following the same spatial-first, frequency-second, and time-third order but over a different set of spatial layers. This structured approach optimizes resource allocation, reduces interference, and improves data transmission reliability in multi-antenna communication systems. The technique is particularly useful in advanced wireless standards like 5G and beyond, where multiple precoders and spatial layers are employed to enhance performance.
17. The method of claim 14 , further comprising: receiving, by the processor, from the UE a hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) with multiple bits indicating one of: a first plurality of codeblocks of a codeword are received correctly or in error and a second plurality of codeblocks of the codeword are received correctly or in error; a first code state that indicates whether one or more codeblocks of a codeword are impacted by cross-link interference (CLI) or not; or a second code state that indicates one or more block errors or one or more random errors.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving error detection and correction in hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) processes for user equipment (UE) in scenarios involving cross-link interference (CLI) or other error conditions. The method enhances HARQ feedback by using multiple bits to convey detailed error information about received codeblocks within a codeword. The feedback can indicate whether specific groups of codeblocks were received correctly or in error, allowing the transmitter to selectively retransmit only the affected portions. Additionally, the feedback can signal whether codeblocks are impacted by CLI, distinguishing between block errors (affecting entire codeblocks) and random errors (affecting individual bits). This granular feedback improves efficiency by reducing unnecessary retransmissions and enabling targeted error recovery. The system processes the HARQ feedback at a base station or network node, adjusting retransmission strategies based on the reported error conditions. The method is particularly useful in dense network deployments where CLI is prevalent, ensuring reliable communication while optimizing resource usage.
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August 11, 2020
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